The price of betrayal (Jack and Ashley) novel Chapter 445

Nolan glanced at Wayne and chuckled lightly. "Dad, wasn't it Megan who invited me up here? And wasn't it this crowd that insisted I come on stage? They haven't even said anything yet, and you're asking me to get down? Is that really appropriate?"

Harold frowned slightly as he watched Nolan talk back to his own father at a time like this. "Nolan, I know you. According to the family lineage, you should address me as Granduncle Harold. And since I'm considered one of your elders, may I say a few words?"

Nolan smiled faintly and said, "Of course, you can, but are you sure you want to? You're an important figure in the Northern State, so you should know well that without the authority to investigate, there's no authority to speak. So, are you sure you want to say something now?"

Hearing this, Harold paused for a moment, then gave Nolan a deep, thoughtful look before letting out a faint smile. "You're right. Without the authority to investigate, one indeed lacks the authority to speak. But we're not in a courtroom, nor are we in a business negotiation.

"I don't think any investigative authority is needed, considering we're at a family reunion, and everyone here is either a family or a friend. What's more, your behavior is dampening the mood, your attitude toward your own father is even somewhat harsh, and your words are filled with provocation toward everyone here. Nolan, have I offended you in some way?"

Nolan chuckled lightly and replied, "Of course not. But among those present today, there are indeed quite a few who have. To be honest, I've come here today specifically to ruin the mood—and not just for one or two people, but for many. Only when they're all unhappy will I feel happy."

Such words were undeniably provocative. In a gathering full of joy and camaraderie, Nolan's declaration of intent to disrupt harmony came across as a direct challenge.

Ben's expression darkened slightly. Stepping forward, he leaned in and spoke to Nolan in a low voice, "Nolan, mind the occasion. If there's something on your mind, we can talk about it privately and work things out. There's no need to make a scene and give everyone a reason to laugh at us."

Nolan looked at Ben and chuckled lightly. "Mr. Stutton, I heard you're living in a three-story villa now. On top of that, you've also bought two apartments and three cars in the neighboring city, right? Yet, you're worried about people laughing at us?"

"Mr. Stutton, and everyone else, I'm truly sorry. It's my fault for not raising him properly. My son just got out of prison, so please forgive him. He's still not thinking straight, and he's been under a lot of stress. Please don't be too angry. I'll take him off the stage right now."

After saying that, Wayne angrily pulled Nolan aside and said, "Nolan, can you please stop embarrassing me? Come with me, and behave yourself. I'm begging you, okay?"

Nolan sighed softly and looked at Wayne. "Dad, you've taught me since I was young to be kind and loyal and to always repay favors. But some people clearly don't understand all that. Instead, they bully the weak. Tell me, what should I do in this situation?

"If these people are bullying my family and my relatives, what should I do then? Should I just pretend I didn't see it?"